computer science

American  

noun

1. the science that deals with the theory and methods of processing information in digital computers, the design of computer hardware and software, and the applications of computers.

---

computer science British  

noun

1. the study of computers and their application

---

computer science Scientific  

1. The study of the design and operation of computer hardware and software, and of the application of computer technology to science, business, and the arts.

---

Other Word Forms

Derived Forms

• computer scientist
  noun

Etymology

Origin of computer science

First recorded in 1970–75

Example Sentences

Contreras handled a full slate of high school classes, clubs and activities: advanced placement Spanish, computer science, the Associated Student Body and college preparation in her AVID, or Advancement Via Individual Determination, class.

From Los Angeles Times • May 28, 2026

"This example is a nice merger of classical geometry, modern plant biology, and computer science."

From Science Daily • May 14, 2026

As tech giants race to win the battle for AI dominance, they’re looking to attract versatile personnel who can do whatever is necessary to advance the frontier of computer science.

From MarketWatch • May 9, 2026

The singer was also a lecturer in computer science at the University of Rwanda before he was sacked.

From BBC • May 7, 2026

“Both. I mean, I’m starting at MIT in the fall for computer science and engineering, so this is a good thing to have on my CV.”

From "When Dimple Met Rishi" by Sandhya Menon

Related Words

• artificial intelligence
• computer technology
• data processing
• information technology
• robotics